UK Employment Contract Basics for Newcomers
In this guide
Quick answer: All UK employees have an employment contract with their employer, which sets out their conditions, rights, responsibilities and duties (the terms). GOV.UK says that as soon as someone accepts a job offer they have a contract with their employer, and the contract does not have to be written down.
Employment contract or contract for services?
| Type | What it is (GOV.UK) |
|---|---|
| Employment contract | All employees have one. It sets out conditions, rights, responsibilities and duties. |
| Contract to provide services | An agreement to do work for someone, such as painting a house. It is not an employment contract. |
When does the contract start?
As soon as you accept a job offer. Contracts must be kept until they end (for example through notice or dismissal) or until the terms are changed, usually by agreement.
Practical steps
- Ask for the job terms in writing, even though the law does not require a written contract.
- Check pay against the minimum wage.
- Check holiday against the statutory minimum.
- Keep your payslips.
Common mistakes
- Thinking you have no contract because nothing was signed.
- Treating employee work as freelance without checking your actual status.
FAQ
What must a written statement include?
The GOV.UK page we checked does not set this out, so read the official page on written statements of employment particulars.
Key takeaways
- Accepting an offer creates a contract.
- It does not need to be written down.
- Employees and contractors are different.
Related guides
- First 90 days in a new country
- UK right to work check
- UK Skilled Worker visa guide
- Avoid visa and job offer scams
Last updated: October 2026. This is general information, not legal advice.
Sources
- GOV.UK: Employment contracts and conditions